Statewide Iowa — GOP leaders in the Iowa legislature are promising tax cuts, welfare reform and new state support for parents who enroll their kids in private schools.
Democrats say their focus is on addressing Iowa’s workforce shortage. Senate Republican Leader of Ankeny Jack Whitver says major, permanent tax reform is his main goal.
House Speaker Pat Grassley of New Hartford isn’t signaling how low the House GOP might like to cut income tax rates only that the state’s surplus must be returned to taxpayers.
Senate President Jake Chapman, a Republican from Adel, says legislators should take a stand against books in schools that he says describe sexually deviant behavior.
Senate Democratic Leader Zach Wahls says workforce is the most important issue facing our state and the GOP’s culture war isn’t helping.
House Democratic Leader Jennifer Konfrst of Windsor Heights says despite philosophical differences, Iowans expect the legislature to tackle challenges.
Konfrst says in addition to making child care not only available, but affordable, there need to be more housing options in Iowa’s small towns, rural areas and cities. House Majority Leader Matt Windschitl of Missouri Valley says there are many opportunities for Republicans and Democrats to work together in 2022.
The current Iowa legislative session began Monday in Des Moines.
